7 things you should know about children with parents in prison: Parents who are in prison need to be aware of the effects that prison life can have on their children.
1. Open and honest communication about the where the absent parent is. Children often listen to adult conversations and this may lead to anxiety. Allowing children to ask questions can help reduce their anxieties. It is often a great relief for children when they know where the parent is.
2. Prepare your child for each step of the prison sentence. Explain what happened in the arrest, trial, and parole, this can help the child understand what is happening to their parent and can help to minimize fear and anxiety.
3. If at all possible encourage the child to visit their parent in prison, seeing the parent in prison can be an important and positive event for the child. Seeing the parent safe can reduce anxiety and provides an opportunity for them to have physical contact from the parent helping them to feel loved and nurtured.
4. Encourage letter writing and other communication if allowed. The parent in prison can describe a typical day, what he eats, what jobs the prisoners do, etc. These should only be described in a neutral and non – threatening manner to the child.
5. Seek support for yourself and your child. Find ways to reduce your stress levels such as exercise, eating well, developing hobbies and getting involved in community activities together.
6. Talk with the school psychologist, counselor or social worker about the situation. Let your child’s teacher know that one parent is in prison so that he or she can be sensitive to the issues facing your child at school and these can be monitored.
7. Let children be children. Get support from other adults who can help you to deal with your feelings, stress level, loneliness, and fears, rather than relying on your children to take care of you.
”Imprisonment is never an easy but by following these tips it may be less stressful for all involved”.
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